Participants compete in a Makepung or bull race with water buffaloes at Kaliakah village in Jembrana in Bali, Indonesia on January 12, 2014. The event attracted tourists to the popular holiday destination island. (SONNY TUMBELAKA/AFP/Getty Images)

Tourists flock to Bali, perhaps Indonesia's most famous island, for its incredible mountain scenery, beautiful beaches and enchanting . But one festive tradition draws hundreds of tourists to the Jembrana region of the island, even as it promises to get both participants and spectators covered in mud in the heat of the blazing sun.

thundering down the middle of a wet rice field, muddy dirt road or beach while pulling tiny chariots carrying their jockeys, according toLonely Planet Bali and Lombok. It's a colorful — and rollicking — race. The buffaloes are dressed in bright headgear, wooden bells and silk banners and the race's atmosphere is sometimes enhanced by music from the traditionaljegog bamboo instrument.

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The tradition was initially a form of thanksgiving celebration of the end of the harvest, and a form of entertainment for the farmers, while they were plowing their fields, before planting the rice, according to the Jakarta Post. But now the buffalo races draw hundreds of buffalo owners and crowds of cheering spectators.

The water buffaloes can reach speeds up to 50kphbut according to the Bali Times, the winner is , but also by which runs in straight line with an upward head position.

The water buffalo races of Jembrana usually when the skies are invariably clear and cloudless, according to theBali Hotel Villa Blog Culture and Travel Guide. The race is actually held twice a year, but due to interest from tourists, the races can be held on request throughout the year. Tour packages are also available which include transport, lunch, entry, insurance and guide to the free event.

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